Franklin planning Goodes times with the Swans

LANCE Franklin says he cannot wait to run out alongside fellow indigenous star Adam Goodes after completing his switch to the Sydney Swans yesterday.

The 26-year-old said he recalled the two-time Brownlow medallist playing on him while he was at Hawthorn and was delighted to now be on the same team.

"I remember lining up here in round one in my debut season and him coming to me and playing on me and now I actually get the chance to play alongside Goodesy," he said.

"It's something I'm looking forward to and I can't wait to get out there."

Franklin has signed with the Swans on a nine-year deal worth a rumoured $10 million but he yesterday dismissed concerns that he would not play out the entire contract.

He used new teammate Goodes, who won a third club best and fairest award aged 31, as an example of players still competing at the highest level into their 30s.

"I think my best footy is still there," Franklin said.

"Players can get to their prime around 26 or 27.

"I think there's a lot of good football left in me.

"As long as I have a good pre-season and do everything right I'm going to be playing good football."

Franklin said it had been hard for him to leave the Hawks.

"It was a tough decision, one that only I know how it felt," he said.

"To leave Hawthorn Football Club winning a premiership definitely did help."

Meanwhile, Dale Thomas will reunite with old boss Mick Malthouse next season after confirming his move from Collingwood to Carlton.

The Magpies made it clear in a short statement that the club expects to receive a first round pick in compensation for the 26-year-old premiership midfielder, who has joined the Blues on a four-year deal.